An electric wheelchair, also called an electric-powered wheelchair, motorised wheelchair, or powerchair, is any seating surface with wheels affixed to it that is propelled by an electrically based power source, typically motors and batteries. The first motor-powered wheelchairs appeared in the early 1900s; however, demand for them did not exist until after World War II.

The first commercially produced electric wheelchairs were merely heavy-duty manual folding-frame wheelchairs that were powered by lead-acid batteries, motors, drive belts, and pulleys. Those systems, known as conventional power wheelchairs, were very simplistic. They required the use of a joystick to control the wheelchair’s movement, and programmability did not exist. The seating system typically consisted of a sling seat and back upholstery, which significantly limited postural support for the individual.

The advent of the power base, which sits beneath the seat and contains the motor and batteries, allowed for significant mechanical advancements in electric wheelchairs. The power base separated the electric wheelchair into two components: the base, which provided mobility, and the seating system, which provided the postural support. At the same time that a shift from a conventional power wheelchair to a power-base wheelchair was taking place, significant advancements were occurring in electronic systems. Some of those mechanical and electrical advancements included the ability to add power tilt and recline systems and programmable performance settings (e.g., forward speed, turning speed, and acceleration). Joysticks, the most basic and common devices used to control electric wheelchairs, came to resemble those used with computer game consoles. Advancements in control systems allowed individuals to control a wheelchair by using any voluntary movement. For example, some electric wheelchairs can be controlled by using head movement, breath actuation, tongue movement, or lower extremity control.

Two types of drive mechanisms are used on electric wheelchairs: indirect drive and direct drive systems. Indirect drive systems (pulleys and drive belts) are used on conventional electric wheelchairs, whereas direct drive systems (gear boxes) are used on power-base wheelchairs. The vast majority of contemporary electric wheelchairs use a power base with a direct drive system. Typically, two 12-volt batteries in series (24-volts total) are needed to power an electric wheelchair. Wet cell batteries, gel batteries, or absorbent glass mat (AGM) batteries may be used in electric wheelchairs. Electric wheelchair batteries typically are rechargeable.

There are three main Types of power wheelchair

– rear-wheel, front-wheel, and mid-wheel drive.

The differences between rear-wheel, mid-wheel and front-wheel power chairs all come down to the position of the drive wheels.

So, first things first, it’s important to understand what they are.

Drive wheels are the largest wheels on a power chair. They are connected to the motors – which means they’re literally the driving force for the wheelchair.

1. Rear-wheel drive 

Rear-wheel power chairs have four wheels that give traction when driving:

. Two large drive wheels.

. Two smaller front castors – to aid stability and manoeuvrability.

They’re called ‘rear-wheel’ because the drive wheels are positioned at the back of the chair’s base.

That means – when driving – all the power comes from the back of the wheelchair. This helps users to propel over rough or softer terrain e.g. gravel or mud because it gives a better power transfer from the motors.

Wheelchair users often find rear-wheel models comfortable. They offer good shock absorption and handle small changes in gradient well, which results in a smoother driving experience.

However, you see fewer rear-wheel drive models nowadays. As technology has advanced, they’ve become less popular – we very rarely specify rear-wheel for our clients.

2. Front-wheel drive

Front-wheel power chairs also have four wheels that give traction when driving:

. Two large drive wheels.

. Two smaller rear castors– again, to aid stability and manoeuvrability.

They’re called front-wheel because the drive wheels are positioned near the front of the chair’s base.

Like rear-wheel models, front-wheel power chairs offer a smooth ride. There are only four wheels on the ground, so you feel the impact of any bumps and surface changes less than in a six-wheeled power chair.

Unlike rear-wheel models, front-wheel power chairs are also great for obstacle climbing! The biggest wheel is at the front. This dramatically increases the height the chair can climb.

Power chairs cannot pass over objects higher than their axle height. The axel is at the centre of the wheel. So, as you can see in the image below, having the drive wheel at the front makes a big difference.

However, because they drive so smoothly, front-wheel models are often easier for people with alternative controls e.g. finger or chin controls. It’s just a matter of getting used to it first!

A final thing to bear in mind is the turning radius. Front-wheel chairs have a larger 360? turning radius than mid-wheel models. This can slightly reduce manoeuvrability for individuals who spend lots of time at home and benefit from that full range of movement.

3. Mid-wheel drive

Mid-wheel power chairs have six wheels that give traction when driving:

. Two large drive wheels

. Four smaller wheels at the front and back

As you might have guessed, they’re called mid-wheel because the drive wheels are positioned in the middle of the chair’s base.

This keeps the user’s center of gravity directly over the drive wheels, giving excellent stability.

Interestingly, this positioning also seems to make mid-wheel models easier to drive. Wheelchair users often say they find them more intuitive. It’s easier to get used to turning and maneuvering – especially for first-time power chair users.

Having six wheels rather than four further increases stability. The front and rear castors make sure the chair won’t tip – even when going over uneven ground or bigger kerbs and slopes.

Perhaps the biggest benefit is the 360? turning radius! It’s much smaller than front/rear-wheel models. So, the user can perform full turns in tighter spaces.

The difference between manual and electric wheelchairs is in two aspects , in the form of pros and cons of both of them. It’s important you choose a wheelchair that meets your specific health and mobility needs.

In india all major brands supply rear wheel drive wheelchairs only 

1. Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs are one of the most widely used mobility products. They are simple and straightforward to use. Newer models offer customizable features to improve comfort and functionality.

. Pros:

> They are generally easy to transport

> They are easy to use

> Very little maintenance required

> Most models can fit through narrow hallways and doorways

> They are more cost-effective than power wheelchairs.

. Cons:-

> You may require assistance to get around

> They require some strength to use it

> They can cause repetitive strain issues, especially in the shoulders

> Not ideal for going long distances or up inclines.

2. Power Wheelchairs

Power wheelchairs present a new host of options to recognise. They are designed to be easy to use and offer a variety of customizable features to meet your mobility needs.

. Pros:-

> They do the work for you

> They are ideal for going long distances

> They are ideal if you no longer have the strength to use a manual wheelchair

> They can be used on many surfaces

> They offer customizable options to improve your comfort level.

Top 5 Electric wheelchairs in India are as follows

1.  Ostrich Rocky Electric Wheelchair 
2.  Megamed GX4000 Electric Wheelchair 
3.  Evox 105E Electric Wheelchair 
4.  Karma Ryder 30 Wheelchair 
5.  Esleh Grand Power Wheelchair 

Affordable electric wheelchairs with lead-acid batteries cost between Rs. 45,000-80,000 and electric wheelchairs with lithium-ion batteries cost above Rs. 80,000.

Electric wheelchair price also depends on various other factors like the frame of the body, the battery used, driving range, type of wheels etc.

Electric Wheelchair price         Price Range

Ostrich electric wheelchair price – 70,000- 3,30,000 INR

Evox electric wheelchair price 45,000 –  92,000 INR

Karma electric wheelchair price – 85,000 – 8,00,000 INR

Megamed Electric Wheelchair Price-  49,000-118,000 INR

Esleh By Anand Electric Wheelchair Price – 45000-125000 INR 

The MG Medicare store provides the best electric wheelchairs online as well as offline. We provide it on rent and sale, it at the best price. It provides foldable, commode, lightweight, indoor and outdoor wheelchairs in electric mode. MG Medicare is the best online and offline medical equipment supplier in India. It provides the best quality and support with an award-winning customer care team. For offline stores, you can visit your nearby stores in New Delhi and Lucknow. Call !! for the best price and products or mail at [email protected]